5-Hour Energy shots may be linked to deaths

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) -- For the second time in less than a month, energy drinks and shots are coming under fire after claims that people are dying after drinking them.

The Food and Drug Administration is investigating 92 reports against a popular energy shot called 5-Hour Energy, reports that claim the shot is linked to illness, hospitalization and even death.

While nothing is confirmed yet, some people say they're putting down the drinks and opting for something else.

The FDA is looking into reports of 13 deaths possibly linked to the energy shots and advising customers to talk to their doctors before taking them or any other energy drinks.

Thursday, Living Essentials, the company who distributes 5-Hour Energy, released a statement that said it's a " compact-sized energy shot intended for busy adults; not an energy drink" and "Living Essentials is unaware of any deaths proven to be caused by 5-Hour Energy."

Some people side with the company, saying they aren't deterred.

"I think they link everything to death and cancer, so I'm not really too concerned about it,” Natasha Askew said.

While others are opting for what they say is a more natural boost.

"I don't use 5-Hour Energy. I don't use any energy drinks." Deborah Pruett- Morales said. “Some coffee every morning, but very little. There is a lot of nutrition that can help you, Vitamin B.”

The FDA said the reports don't necessarily prove the shots cause death or injury, but it will still investigate every single one.

Five-Hour Energy is marketed as a dietary supplement, not an energy drink.

Last month the FDA got reports that highly-caffeinated Monster energy drinks were possibly linked to five deaths and one non-fatal heart attack.

Officials said they will take action and possibly take the drinks and shots off the shelves if they are able to link them to death.

KKCO firmly believes in freedom of speech for all and we are happy to provide this forum for the community to share opinions and facts. We ask that commenters keep it clean, keep it truthful, stay on topic and be responsible. Comments left here do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of KKCO 11News.

Online Public Information File

Viewers with disabilities can get assistance accessing this station's FCC Public Inspection File by contacting the station with the information listed below. Questions or concerns relating to the accessibility of the FCC's online public file system should be directed to the FCC at 888-225-5322, 888-835-5322 (TTY), or fccinfo@fcc.gov.